Boost Antioxidants, Fight Diabetes with White Mulberry

White mulberries are an amazing superfruit packed with free radical-fighting antioxidants, protein, fiber and more. Learn more about this amazing fruit and how to reap its benefits.. Learn more at eVitamins, the largest online health UK superstore.

Berries are some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, providing antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that nourish and protect the body. Considered superfoods, berries make a great addition to the diet.

A new superfood berry is now making waves in the natural health market and with good reason: white mulberry.

White Mulberry 101
White mulberry (Morus alba L.) is a perennial plant that is a member of the Moraceae family. Today, it's present throughout the United States and in parts of Canada and is native to countries in the far east, like China and Turkey, where it's the food of silkworms. These berries look similar to blackberries in shape and, when they're dried, the berries have a light golden brown color and has less sugar than most dried fruits.

White mulberries are an amazing source of antioxidants vitamins like vitamin C, minerals like iron as well as protein and fiber.

Health Benefits of White Mulberries
First and foremost, white mulberries are rich in antioxidants. Known as phenols, these compounds help protect the cells of the body against the oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. We encounter free radicals all the time -- in the air we breathe, the water we drink and even the personal care items we use. These toxins can damage the cells and cause aging and illness. Mulberries also contain immunity-boosting vitamin C as well as resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant which is known to support heart health.

The other reason the white mulberry plant is getting so much attention is for the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The leaves of this plant contain and active compound known as DNJ (1-deoxynojirimycin) that mimics the effects of certain diabetes drugs and may prevent sugar from being rapidly absorbed into the blood stream, causing spikes in blood glucose levels. The sugar is absorbed more gradually or excreted from the body with waste.

Lastly, the fiber in mulberries supports heart health as well along with healthy cholesterol levels. Keeping your cholesterol intact can help lower your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Dr. Mehmet Oz has also sung the praises of white mulberry for its antioxidants and impact on diabetes prevention. (Editor's Note: Dr. Oz doesn't endorse any specific brand or product. He isn't affiliated with eVitamins or this blog in any way.)

How to Try Them
White mulberries can be eaten raw, dried or cooked. Snacking on a handful of these berries is an energizing snack that will keep you going throughout the day, thanks to the protein and fiber which help fill you up and keep you moving. Eat them plain or toss them with nuts of all kinds to create a trail mix you can take along with you. The dried leaves of the plant are commonly made into tea, which can be consumed to help regulate blood sugar.

If you've been diagnosed with diabetes, or any medical condition for that matter, it's especially important to speak with your doctor before taking white mulberry leaf for medicinal purposes. Pregnant and breastfeeding women shouldn't take white mulberry leaf either. The berries are safe for consumption.

Check out our selection of white mulberry products at eVitamins and let us know how they work for you. We'll continue to keep you updated on the latest health news and superfoods!

Statements made about specific vitamins, supplements, procedures or other items sold on or through this website have not been evaluated by eVitamins, UK Department of Health (MHRA) or the United States Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. As always, please consult with a licensed doctor or physician before starting any diet, exercise or supplement program, before taking any vitamin or medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a problem.